Euphorbia tirucalli (Pencil Tree or Milk Tree)
 Euphorbia tirucalli Tree |
This species is endemic to Africa. It has many common names including pencil tree, pencil cactus, firestick plant, Indian tree spurge, naked lady, milk bush, milk tree and aveloz. A red variety of the plant is called Sticks on Fire.
This species has been widely planted in Hawaiʻi, particularly in the Kaʻū District and can readily reproduce from broken branches.
WARNING!
This is a dangerous plant. We strongly advise against planting it or even maintaining it as a potted plant.
The white, milky, latex like sap of this plant is poisonous and extremely irritating to the skin and mucosa, and difficult to remove. Contact with the eyes can cause severe pain and temporary blindness lasting several days. If swallowed, the sap may cause severe burning to the mouth, lips, and tongue. Deaths have been recorded from swallowing the latex, and anyone ingesting even small amounts should seek medical attention. Exposure may cause other adverse effects including suppression of the immune system and cancer.
Wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in any situation where you may become exposed to the sap of this plant, including but not necessarily limited to chemical splash resistant goggles, gloves and disposable chemical protective clothing (full body suits with hoods and shoe covers) to prevent all contact with skin, hair, eyes and non-disposable clothing items. Selection of disposable body suits and PPE is should be considered as it may be very difficult to remove sap that has dried on surfaces.
Wrap or enclose plants securely in leak resistant packaging as broken twigs and branches weep copious amounts of sap. Dispose of the plants and sap contaminated materials safely following local regulations. Do not burn them.